2018 Week 37: Birthday in Amish Country

Field of scarecrows at Amish Acres

 Sister-in-law Diane had a brithday this week. Sunday we took her out to eat and then had her favorite German chocolate cake to share with family in the afternoon.
"Oops! I forgot to buy candles. No problem, I have a number six candle and five toothpicks."

Tuesday 9/11, her actual birthday, Diane and I enjoyed the Amish Acres getaway package  which includes: an overnight stay at the Inn; a tour of the historic Amish farm and schoolhouse; a buggy ride; a wonderful family-style meal; a performance of the musical Plain and Fancy in the Round Barn Theatre; and plenty of shopping opportunities.

The birthday girl "as pretty as a peacock"

 I have some photos for the highlights of our week. Life is very full with all the routine activities but nothing to show for those. Michael installed a new CNC machine at the robotics shop. He continues to go back and forth with the many steps and setbacks of the satellite program. And he must care for the bees, keep up with house and yard maintenance. Probably his big accomplishment of the week was the completion of the upgrades to the recumbent--electric assist, and a more comfortable seat. He coulda/shoulda been more carefull while handling the fiberglass because since then his hands and eyes have been irritated.

We did get out a couple times: Wednesday evening a lovely dinner and fun new game with friends. . .

. . . and Friday, an evening of dancing with old friends.

Thursday was art club, the last paint-by-number. Obviously the package I ordered is of lesser quality paper and paints, but we enjoyed the hour together each week working on one same project.

The last two, appropriately fallish

I thought the left over paints and designs would keep the boys busy when they came Saturday, however they preferred blank paper. What do you make of their art samples?

In an attempt to wear them down keep them busy, we planned a series of activities. First we set off to explore the woods.

First stop--the slack line

Last stop--the hunters' seat

We each carried a bag in case we found treasures. I found rocks to paint. Some special finds were only to admire and not carry back. How many interesting things can you see?

We went to see Incredibles 2 at Taylor University where we met up with Kayla and Rebecca.  Afterwards, of course, we had to go to Ivanhoes for ice cream. The clown sundae is the young'uns favorite.

All three boys were here (sorry, Elijah, no photos) so Sam and Kristie could have a special birthday date. Today, Monday the 17th, is her big 40 birthday! "Blessings, dear one, in this new season of life."

Thursday, September 20, I am scheduled for right eye cataract surgery. Not sure what recovery will be like nor when I'll be back to blogging.  The second surgery is planned for October 2.

¡Hasta pronto!